No More Karaoke at Forest and Ocean

Spelthorne Borough Council's Licensing Sub-Committee met to review the licence held by Forest and Ocean, a bar located in Staines High Street near the Town Hall.

The licence review was called by Staines ward councillor, Cllr Alan Patterson, following a number of complaints from residents about noise disturbance and public nuisance problems.

The Sub-Committee was persuaded by the evidence of interested parties which showed that their health and well being has been, and continues to be, compromised as a result of continual disturbance in Market Square on Friday and Saturday evenings from customers who have been drinking at the Forest and Ocean premises. 

In light of this and the long standing nature of some of the issues, the Sub-Committee took the decision to remove permission for live or recorded music, dancing and entertainment facilities such as a DJ or karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays, and any other day not followed by a normal working day.

The Sub-Committee considered whether revocation of the premises licence was necessary and concluded that it was not, as the problems at the premises mainly affected Friday and Saturday nights. 

Licensing Committee Chairman Councillor Robin Sider said: "The Committee found that the large numbers of young people leaving the Forest and Ocean at closing time at the weekends is creating a disturbance. I am pleased with the decision which has been reached and believe that the restrictions imposed will achieve a significant reduction in noise and nuisance for local residents."